Diffusion is the movement of molecules from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration. This process occurs spontaneously and does not require any external energy.
Osmosis is the movement of water molecules through a selectively permeable membrane from an area of high water concentration to an area of low water concentration. This process is also spontaneous and does not require any external energy.
The main difference between diffusion and osmosis is that diffusion involves the movement of any type of molecule, while osmosis specifically refers to the movement of water molecules. Additionally, diffusion can occur in any type of medium, while osmosis only occurs through a selectively permeable membrane.
Examples of diffusion include the scent of perfume spreading in a room, food coloring dispersing in water, and the exchange of gases in our lungs. Examples of osmosis include the absorption of water by plant roots, the movement of water in and out of cells in our bodies, and the preservation of food through the process of osmosis in pickling and curing.
Both diffusion and osmosis are essential processes in maintaining balance and homeostasis in biological systems. Diffusion allows for the movement of important molecules and nutrients across cell membranes, while osmosis helps regulate the balance of water and solutes in our bodies.